Graduation Gifts for Him

Searching for the Perfect Graduation Gift? Here Are 23

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Graduation is an emotional time. He’s just finished what are slated to be some of the best years of his life, and it’s time for him to bid adieu to his days of frat parties, library all-nighters, dorm living, and all that is collegiate.

This is a monumental time in his life, he’s packing up his dorm room or student apartment, and heading out into the real world. He’s likely sad to say goodbye to the carefree days of college, excited to never have to write another essay again and anxious about that whole ‘job search’ thing that lies ahead.

If you think about it, new grads are debatably some of the easiest people to shop for. They've spent the last four years working their butts off to get their degree, so the way we see it, you can either treat them to something that will help them celebrate or treat them to something that will help them prepare for the #adulting that lies ahead.

Because the under-eye bags and an all-ramen all the time diet just aren't as endearing if you don't have finals to blame for it, we’ve suggested a few graduation gifts that will help him ease the transition into adulthood. From travel accessories, for the post-grad seeking adventure, to style subscriptions, ready to elevate his closet for the real world, and kitchen tools, to help him up his culinary game now that he's off cafeteria meals, these gifts will help prepare your graduate for this new chapter in his life.

Without further fanfare, here’s how to spoil the heck out of the graduating guy in your life.

BOSS Navigator Watch

If you’re looking for a classic gift for the graduate that he will treasure for years to come, consider a timeless watch. This watch from BOSS, featuring a top-stitched leather strap and mineral crystal face, has just the right mix of sleek details and simple design to carry him from the boardroom to beers with the boys.

Takeya Cold Brew Iced Coffee Maker

Even though he’s closing the book on academia, there’s one thing he won’t leave behind: coffee. In the working world, mornings are going to feel just as early as those 8 a.m. classes did so a decent coffee maker is essential. If he already owns a fairly reliable coffee maker – consider the Takeya. Think of this as the perfect way to get cafe-quality cold brew, sans the steep price tag. Simply add coffee grinds, let it brew in the fridge and voila: concentrated cold brew.

Audible Subscription

No matter if he plans to walk, ride the subway or drive to his new gig, make his commute a little more engaging with an Audible membership. Whether it’s celebrity-narrated fiction or a read-by-the-author memoir, tuning into an audiobook will serve as the perfect way to kick off and cap off his day.

Bellroy Hide & Seek Leather Wallet

One of the signs of a true gentleman? A really suave wallet. The slim fit of Bellroy's leather wallet will fit smoothly into the pocket of any jean, pant or sportcoat without leaving an unsightly bulge. And for extra peace of mind, the lining is RFID enabled to protect his personal information.

Brooklinen Sheets

Since his dorm room days are in the past, help him upgrade his new pad and his sleep routine with a set of high-quality sheets. Sure, this might not seem like the most exciting gift, but trust us, after just one night's rest with these bad boys he'll be wondering why he didn't request them sooner. Brooklinen's lightweight sheets are composed of 100 percent long-staple cotton and designed to stay cool and fresh throughout the night.

Sonos Play: 1 WiFi Speaker

While he may have relied on his laptop speakers to see him through over the past four years, it’s time he upgraded to the real deal. Not only does the Sonos Play: 1 provide a rich, high-quality sound, it can be controlled via voice commands through an Amazon-Alexa enabled device.

MeUndies

High-class comfort without the pretentiousness of most luxury brands, MeUndies offers a unique package. Made from micro modal, which is twice as soft as cotton, its boxer briefs are breathable, comfortable and even score some solid style points. Every month, MeUndies features a new print, plus its online-only service means you keep your costs low.

‘Ottolenghi Simple’ Cookbook - Yotam Ottolenghi

It’s no longer acceptable to survive off pots of instant mac and cheese once he’s crossed the stage. If your graduate has been putting off learning to cook or simply wants to start eating better, look to Ottolenghi. Packed with healthy yet scrumptious Middle Eastern-inspired recipes, including lamb and feta meatballs and braised eggs with leeks, this book will allow him to broaden his cooking horizons even in a limited time frame.

Apple Watch 4

Between finding a “grown-up” place to live and searching for a “real” job, the months following graduation can be hectic. To ensure he stays organized and on top of it all, you'll want to give him a gadget that can keep up with his fast-paced lifestyle. The Apple Watch is just the ticket. Not only can he effortlessly text and answer calls straight from his watch, but he can also stream music and track his health and fitness.

Hello Fresh

Designed to take the stress out of shopping and cooking a healthy, balanced meal, Hello Fresh’s weekly box delivers two-person portions of all the ingredients needed for three meals. Regardless of whether his cooking skills stop at boiling ramen water or if he’s well on his way to making a mouth-watering meal, one of the perks of Hello Fresh is that it teaches a variety of basic (and more advanced) foundational cooking skills.

Filson Travel Kit

No one likes opening up their suitcase to find that shampoo has leaked or shaving cream has exploded all over their clothes. Whether he’s heading out on a post-grad Euro trip or he’s just coming home to visit family for the weekend, help him keep his products organized and spill-free with a grooming kit. Made with top-quality cotton, twill and leather, Filson’s grooming kit is built to last for years to come.

Philips Beard Trimmer Series 7200

There’s something about college that makes young guys want to grow the biggest beard humanly possible. But while they might be able to suddenly grow some really solid facial hair, many younger fellas don’t realize that a beard requires almost as much maintenance as shaving. Philip’s beard trimmer will tackle and tame any beard of any length, and make it look office-ready.

Trunk Club

If your graduate needs a wardrobe overhaul, a Trunk Club subscription is the perfect solution. With a Trunk Club membership, he will receive a curated box of six to eight items of clothing, from high-end brands such as Vince and Ted Baker, all expertly picked by a stylist to match his taste and lifestyle. And if he doesn’t like a piece he can simply send it back.

Carry-On Cocktail Kit

Wherever the post-grad life takes him he should be prepared. While practical gifts are well and good, why not get him something a little indulgent? To help him get through a turbulent flight W&P has created miniature kits of everyone's favorite cocktails, such as Old Fashioned, Moscow Mule and Gin & Tonic, that are 100 percent TSA approved. We’ll drink to that.

Patagonia Lightweight Fleece

Outdoorsy types typically refer to Patagonia as Patagucci, because this is the boutique stuff. Definitely get this for the guy who’s fond of traversing nature in adverse conditions. It’ll keep him warm, and he won’t look like a total dork in the Instagram selfies he’ll take from the top of a mountain.

‘Everything Is F*cked: A Book About Hope’ - Mark Manson

Leaving the world of scheduled semesters and spring break can be incredibly intimidating. Add on the stress of the economy, politics and the environment and it’s enough for a student to want to stay tucked safely inside a classroom forever. In Manson’s latest book, he shares how despite all the evil in the world one can still come out on top. Humorous and insightful, this book is the perfect follow-up to Manson’s bestselling “The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck.”

Amazon Kindle

The summer after graduation is the perfect time to catch up on all that leisure reading he’s been neglecting over the past couple semesters. Equipped with a built-in reading light, an impressive battery life, and glare-free display, the Kindle will help him weed through that evergrowing post-grad, must-read list.

Instant Pot

He’s soon about to discover the joy of a jam-packed day and a hectic commute. To help ensure he gets some decent grub in his mug at the end of it all, gift him an Instant Pot. Ideal for everything from rice and soup to stews and meats, this gadget prepares meals up to 70 percent faster than the standard cooking method and keeps dishes warm for up to 10 hours so he can pop in his ingredients in the morning and return home to a hot dish.

Monogrammed Tech Carrier

If he's planning some post-grad travel adventures, help him start on the right foot with a sleek, handy travel organizer. Not only will this set store all his cords and gadgets, as he hops from plane to train and back again, but he can put it to good use post-voyage and keep his belongings safe and secure in his backpack or car.

Le Labo Cologne Discovery Set

Every modern man needs a signature scent, help him find his with this Le Labo sampler set. Featuring 17 scents, including neroli and vetiver, this set will allow him to experiment with combining fragrances and discover favorites within the mix.

Indochino Custom Suit

With graduation comes job interviews, and with job interviews comes the necessity to dress sharp. Once his diploma is in hand, no longer will a plaid shirt and jeans pass for formal. While this suit isn't the flashiest gift on the list, he'll thank you in the long run when he scores his first out of school office gig.

Away Carry-On

Whether your grad is jetting off on a European escapade or moving across the country to delve into corporate life, a durable carry-on bag is essential. The Away carry-on has built up a cult-like following thanks to its unique two compartment design, built-in charging capabilities, TSA-approved lock and 360-degree wheels. With a wide selection of color choices and monogram options, you can easily give this gift a personal touch.$225 at AwayTravel.com

Vionic Chukka Suede Boots

Whether he's heading out on interviews or going on a date, a fine suede shoe that looks at once effortless and sophisticated is a must-have. Enter the Chase Chukka Boot. This boot’s classic structure and fine suede exterior makes it incredibly versatile, and thanks to a durable rubber sole and a podiatrist-designed Orthopedic heel for support, his feet will feel as good as they look.